Dear Santa Clara University Community,
In this latest edition of the Prepared SCU Roundup we share key information related to SCU’s response to COVID-19.
COVID-19 cases continue to increase in Santa Clara County, and the test positivity rate in the county has risen to 4.5%. Case numbers on campus in April and May remain elevated compared to February and March. Given the ongoing exposure to COVID-19, please get tested if you have been exposed or if you are experiencing symptoms. In addition, those who are medically vulnerable or who spend time with people at high risk should strongly consider wearing a mask indoors, especially in crowded indoor settings.
Cases on Campus
Positive test results (including Color tests, rapid antigen tests, and external tests) at SCU are shown below. The total campus population at SCU is approximately 10,000 people. This week, approximately 70% of cases have been reported by students, and 30% have been reported by faculty and staff.
| May 2 - May 5 |
50 positive cases |
| April 25 - May 1 |
68 positive cases |
| April 18 - April 24 |
28 positive cases |
| April 11 - April 17 |
35 positive cases |
| April 4 - April 10 |
51 positive cases |
| March 28 - April 3 |
40 positive cases |
Spring Quarter COVID-19 Testing
When to test:
- You are experiencing symptoms.
- You are concerned about or notified of possible exposure.
- Before attending a crowded indoor event or gathering.
- After returning from travel.
- Before visiting with people who are at increased risk.
What to do if you have been exposed to COVID-19:
- Get tested 3-5 days after your last exposure, even if you do not have symptoms.
- Get tested if you start to experience symptoms. Stay home until you get the test results.
- Wear a well-fitting mask indoors for 10 days after exposure.
What to do if you test positive:
- Complete the SCU COVID test result survey immediately.
- Follow guidance from the COVID Ops team when they reach out via email or phone in response to your survey submission.
- Tell your friends and close contacts to get tested (SCU Testing Protocols).
Color tests are available in residence halls, Benson Memorial Center, or the lobbies of the following buildings: St. Joseph’s, Dowd, Vari Hall, Lucas Hall, SCDI, Guadalupe Hall, and the front desk of JST.
For rapid antigen tests, come by the Health Ambassadors’ table outside the Learning Commons, 11am-3pm Monday-Friday.
Recommendations and tips
- Stay home if you are feeling unwell. Get tested, so you can isolate if necessary.
- Spend time outside. Move social gatherings outside when possible.
- Wear a mask, especially in crowded indoor settings. Masks are strongly recommended in most indoor settings. KN95 masks are available at several locations across campus. Students and faculty are required to wear a mask in the classroom at all times unless a pedagogical exception has been granted. Please remember that eating and drinking are not allowed in classrooms.
- Students, faculty and staff with approved exemptions for the COVID-19 vaccine are required to wear masks in all indoor settings.
Stay safe and well,
SCU COVID-19 Operations Team
